We’re 80, and we wanted to take a moment to reflect on this milestone by commemorating the journey we’ve shared together.

If you are a broker, we thank you for your relationship and trust.

If you are a professional driver in DC and Maryland, we want to than

k you for trusting us to be your insurance provider for any unexpected bumps on the road. We look forward to serving you in the future.

Together we’ve witnessed significant change within the transportation and livery industry and Amalgamated continues to evolve to meet the demands of today’s professional driver and broker.

We plan to keep our business and relationship with you growing while continuing to provide you nothing less than the best. With your loyalty, we will continue to travel new roads together as we enter our 9th decade in business.

]]>
https://acicinsure.com/blogs/tips/a-m-best-insurance-rating-what-does-it-mean-and-why-you-should-care2018-10-26T18:42:00-04:002018-11-19T13:32:22-05:00A.M. Best Insurance Rating. What Does it Mean and Why You Should Care?ACICinsure.com team - Curated Content

Summary:

At Amalgamated, we recognize that our customers are looking for the best commercial insurance possible. That is why we take pride in our A.M. Best A- rating. Founded in 1899, A.M. Best is a credit rating organization dedicated specifically to rating the insurance industry. A.M. Best issues financial strength ratings measuring insurance companies’ ability to pay claims and measure risk. Amalgamated Casualty Insurnace Company has been rated by AM Best since 1961.

The article below originally appeared on the Insurance Industry Institute website and broadly explains rating scales of the five independent agencies. A.M. Best is the only global credit rating agency with a unique focus on the insurance industry.

How to assess the financial strength of an insurance company

Five independent agencies—A.M. Best, Fitch, Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA), Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s—rate the financial strength of insurance companies. Each has its own rating scale, its own rating standards, its own population of rated companies, and its own distribution of companies across its scale. Each agency uses numbers or plusses and minuses to indicate minor variations in rating from another rating class.

The agencies disagree often enough so that you should consider a company’s rating from two or more agencies before judging whether to buy or keep a policy from that company. Moreover, agencies will announce changes of ratings on any day. It’s probably prudent to check annually on the ratings of any company you’re interested in.

Some points for using the ratings:

Don’t rely only on what the insurance companies say about their ratings from these agencies. Companies are likely to highlight a higher rating from one agency and ignore a lower one from another agency, or to select the most favorable comments from a rating agency’s report.

To use the ratings from more than one independent agency, you need to understand that each agency’s rating code is different from the others. For example, an A+ from A.M. Best is the next-to-top rating of its 15 categories, but an A+ from Fitch, Kroll or S&P is their 5th-highest rating (out of 24 categories for Fitch, 22 categories for Kroll and out of 19 categories for S&P). Moreover, Moody’s doesn’t have an A+ rating.

However, the ratings can be classified into “secure” and “vulnerable” mega-categories.

Ratings Agency Contact Information

All of the ratings agencies can be found on the Web or reached by phone.

*To use these Web sites, you have to register, but the service is free.

]]>
https://acicinsure.com/blogs/tips/hints-and-tips-for-driving-during-hurricane2018-10-26T17:56:00-04:002018-10-26T17:56:20-04:00Hints And Tips For Driving During HurricaneACICinsure.com team - Curated ContentWith hurricane season at its height, commercial drivers need to be even more cautious than usual to avoid physical or medical casualties in inclement weather. While it is best to stay indoors in the event of a weather emergency, we at ACIC want our drivers to be as safe as possible. Read more to learn the best driving tips for this year’s hurricane season.

Summary:

With hurricane season at its height, commercial drivers need to be even more cautious than usual to avoid physical or medical casualties in inclement weather. While it is best to stay indoors in the event of a weather emergency, we at ACIC want our drivers to be as safe as possible. Read more to learn the best driving tips for this year’s hurricane season.

Hints And Tips For Driving During Hurricane

One of the important factors ofhurricane preparationis to know the dos and don’ts of driving during hurricane.

Even if a hurricane only brushes your area this season, driving in rainy, windy conditions requires caution.

The best advice is the stay off the roads unless there is no choice.

Don’t drive if you don’t have to, that’s our No. 1 advice

More people lose their lives on roadways in inclement weather than in any other way, experts said.

But if you must get behind the wheel, use common sense and caution. Keep safe distances between vehicles and drive within speed limits.

Don’t assume that more rugged vehicles like Jeeps are better suited to bad-weather driving. Their height actually works against them in adverse weather.

They’re more prone to rollovers in high winds or on wet roads. Sport-utility vehicle drivers must be particularly careful crossing bridges, on curved roads or while making turns. The vehicles’ height reduces traction.

Should your vehicle skid and begin to spin, take your foot off the accelerator and do not try to brake. With a rear-wheel drive vehicle, shift into neutral if possible and turn the wheel in the direction you want to go.

Severe skidding is less common with front-wheel drive because of improved traction. But again, ease off the gas and keep off the brake. Don’t try to turn, but wait for the wheels to grip the road.

Another tip is to avoid any roadway that’s covered with water.

You don’t know how deep it is. There could be an open manhole or a sinkhole under there.’

If you must drive through standing water, the best advice is to drive slowly.

Should the car stall, call for a tow rather than try to restart it. Oil, dirt or other junk floating in the water could get into the engine and damage components.

If you come to an intersection with a traffic light out, treat the intersection as if it were a four-way stop.

]]>
https://acicinsure.com/blogs/tips/should-you-get-a-dash-cam2018-09-07T12:43:00-04:002018-09-07T12:43:35-04:00Should You Get a Dash Cam?ACICinsure.com team - Curated Content
Dash cams have become increasingly popular within the last decade, primarily as a tool to provide evidence in the claims process or to prevent insurance fraud. Dash cams hold drivers sharing the road with you accountable for their reckless and/or distracted driving. Dash cams also have the potential to make you a better driver, providing incentives for safer driving behaviors. In the following article, we have collected a number of reasons why you as a commercial driver should consider purchasing a dash cam, from safety to accountability, and more!

SUMMARY:

Dash cams have become increasingly popular within the last decade, primarily as a tool to provide evidence in the claims process or to prevent insurance fraud. Dash cams hold drivers sharing the road with you accountable for their reckless and/or distracted driving. Dash cams also have the potential to make you a better driver, providing incentives for safer driving behaviors. In the following article, we have collected a number of reasons why you as a commercial driver should consider purchasing a dash cam, from safety to accountability, and more!

8 Strong Reasons Why You Should Consider Buying A Dash Cam

You Have First-Hand Evidence Of A Car Accident

This is by far the main reason why millions of car drivers have decided to invest their time and money in dash cams, especially in Russia, where you can see the highest number of dash cam users at the moment. Simply put, the camera will start recording as soon as you start your car’s engine and it will provide real-time, efficient, straight-to-the-point proof in case of accident.

If a car crash took place and your vehicle was involved, then you can prove that it was not your fault and you can send the videotape as evidence, should there be any court trial. This way, the other party will be held responsible for the accident and will be obliged to pay for your own car repairs – without the video evidence, the other driver may claim that the fault was entirely yours, as it often happens that the guilty drivers tend to put the blame on the victims.

The dash cam is the strongest and most efficient proof you have for defending yourself, in case of car crash. In the end, it is better to have one and to stay on the safe side, as it can help you save a lot of time, money and trouble in the long run.

A Dash Cam Is The Perfect Solution For Undisciplined Drivers

Another important reason why you should consider buying a dash cam is because this will help you report undisciplined drivers. Every driver has had at least one bad encounter with a bad driver, throughout his “driving career”.

Not only are these reckless and irresponsible drivers very bothersome and annoying, but they might actually put the lives of other drivers and innocent passengers in danger. However, reporting the bad behavior of an undisciplined driver can be a daunting task, as this often requires proof – if you do not have an eye witness to testify on your behalf, then the case usually goes cold.

This is where the dash cam steps in and provides the ultimate proof against bad drivers. However, the dash cam can actually be used to report a variety of drivers who do not act according to their status, when in traffic. You can use it for drunk drivers or reckless drivers who text and drive, you can use it for reporting road rage accidents and such.

Most of the US states have special programs dedicated to those who want to report bad drivers and make the United States roads a safer and better place for everybody. If you do not take action against these reckless people, then you already have your share of the fault, if anything happens to another driver or passenger.

It often happens that even if you are a good, experienced and professional driver who always sticks to the rules (both the written driving rules and the unwritten, common sense-related ones), there comes somebody else who is disrespectful and irresponsible. These people can cause a major accident in the blink of an eye, and the dash cam will capture every single detail that takes place on the road.

The Dash Cam Is Perfect For Driving Instructors And Worried Parents

Are you worried that your child may take your car for a ride, even though you have repeatedly forbidden him to do so? Do you own a taxi company and you suspect that your drivers may use several extra miles in personal interest, or perhaps you have a company of any kind and you want to limit the fuel consumption, yet extra miles keep adding up without any apparent reason? If that is the case, then the dashboard camera is certainly the best solution for you.

On the other hand, buying a dash cam is also perfect if you constantly lend your car to your friends or relatives, or you want to see what happens whenever you drop your vehicle off at the local mechanic. Your car may be one of your most valuable assets, and it is perfectly normal to be concerned about it and its integrity.

Most of the modern dash cameras come with GPS devices that are embedded in them, therefore in addition to recording every single detail that takes place both inside the car and outside of it, the dash cam will also record the driving speed as well as the different street routes.

You Can Prevent Fraud

Insurance fraud is one of the most common problems of the 21st century, when it comes to vehicles and traffic. Not only does the fraud affect insurance companies on a large scale, but it actually takes its toll on car drivers (the honest ones!) as well.

Simply put, some drivers purposely cause car accidents just to put the blame on the other party, in order to extort money from the victim. This is a widely used fraud practice nowadays, where those who commit it usually look for high-end car drivers to extort.

In addition to extorting money from the alleged victim, who is usually innocent but has no way of proving it, these people also fake injuries in order to collect the insurance money from their insurance companies. Simply put, those who commit the fraud claim that they have suffered a whiplash injury, and they commonly claim that they suffer from back pain as well.

It is not uncommon for these people to demand hospitalization and even compensation to cover for the expense and “pain”. This is usually a phantom pain that is very hard to show on X-rays, so scammers simply take advantage of this loop hole and cause an insurance fraud.

The dashboard cam can prevent at least one of these two unpleasant situations. By carefully installing the cam on the dashboard of your car and recording all the events, you can prevent scammers from illegally extorting money from you for something you haven’t even done.

Don’t let scammers take advantage of you! Invest your money in a dash cam that will keep you on the safe side, rather than paying these scammers your hard-worked money just to avoid going to trial or calling the police to solve things out.

You Can Record Your Entire Road Trip

This reason is particularly important if you are fond of road trips and you always go with your loved ones on occasional trips. Do you want to turn your road trip into an unforgettable journey that you can see over and over again, whenever nostalgia kicks in?

If so, then a dashboard camera is certainly a great investment that will help you turn your road trip into a great experience and a memory you will cherish over the years.

If you are a creative person, then you can easily turn your journey into your own adventure – all you need is a touch of skill and creativity and a high-quality dash camera that will not let you down when you need it the most. Pack your stuff, install your camera and you are good to go!

Dash Cams Have A Plethora Of Useful Features And Functions

You would be amazed to see how much dash cams have evolved over the years. At the time being, these high-quality cameras come with plenty of useful features that can benefit you on many different levels.

For instance, most of these cameras come with audible notifications along with spoken status updates – this way, you will always stay up to date with the recording process and you will be notified in real-time, should there be any problem with the camera or the storage card.

As mentioned above, most of the dash cams come with a GPS device embedded in them and they will help you track your speed and location. Moreover, these cameras will also help you record your destination onto a log file and manage your journey in a fast, efficient and hassle-free way.

The cameras come with a low battery usage feature as well and, as the name suggests, this particular function is designed to make the dash camera use as little battery as possible. This feature is especially useful if your dashboard camera is not drawing its energy from your car’s battery and it relies exclusively on external batteries, as it increases their lifespan.

Most of the cameras also come with a generous, high-tech LCD screen that has a touch technology embedded in them as well. With a user-friendly, comprehensive and straightforward navigation menu, these cameras now allow you to have full control over your road trip and over your recording experience.

You Can Efficiently Prevent Parking Accidents

Parking can be a nightmare, especially for beginner drivers who tend to accidentally scratch other cars while they are struggling to park theirs. Has it ever occurred to you to find your beloved car scratched or seriously damaged, knowing that it was perfectly intact when you parked it the other night? Are you tired of your neighbor scraping your car when trying to pull theirs out.

Also, a well-installed dash camera can efficiently record vandals who are trying to break into your car, especially if you use to leave your vehicle unattended in public places or in areas that are poorly lit. One of the greatest advantages of dashboard cameras is that most of them can be set to stay on throughout the entire night, without you having to leave your car engine on.

In addition to this, the dash cams can also be operated remotely from the privacy of your home, and you can send all the data to your laptop, computer, tablet or smart phone. These cams are especially designed to give car owners the peace of mind they need at night, knowing that their cars are safe and sound in the parking lot!

You Might Be Amazed Of What A Dash Cam Can Capture!

Never underestimate the power of dash cams! If you look at the online videos of car accidents and unexpected phenomena, you will see that most of them have been accidentally caught on camera and very few of them have actually been recorded on purpose. In other words, a dash cam can help you capture the things that you least expect them to.

Besides the fact that dash cams are a great investment from a safety and legal standpoint, these cameras can actually help you record some unforgettable events as well. For instance, a Russian car driver’s dash camera has recorded the meteor that flew over Russia and the clip ended up having tens of millions of views on Youtube.

There are countless other unexpected events caught on dash cameras, from accidents involving other cars to alleged paranormal activity and animals surprised in the middle of the road. The dashboard mounted camera can be used in countless different ways!

]]>
https://acicinsure.com/blogs/tips/why-should-you-update-your-information-in-your-current-policy2018-09-07T12:42:00-04:002018-09-07T13:06:41-04:00Why should you update your information in your current policy?ACICinsure.com team - Original Content

What are the benefits of updating your policy information? By keeping us properly informed you’ll make sure your claim is handled quickly and with minimal delay. With the latest information on file we’ll be able to send out invoices and statutory notices in a timely manner that is certain to reach you. In the event that you are involved in an accident, with the latest information on file, your claims adjuster can keep you updated on the status of your claim.

Benefits of updating your policy information

In the event that you are involved in an accident you will need a claims adjuster to quickly resolve your claim so that you can get back on the road. By keeping us properly informed and updated you’ll be ensuring your claim is handled quickly and with minimal delay. With current and accurate information on file you'll also receive important policy notices and invoices in a timely manner.

For business fleets, informing us of new drivers on your policy is critical. Failure to do so can result in a claim not being eligible for coverage in the event a loss occurs. It is equally important to have an accurate list of current fleet vehicles in operation to avoid losses where there is no insurance coverage available. Please keep us updated and informed with accurate driver and vehicle information.

As a current customer you are entitled to receive helpful newsletters, partner offers, and event invitations.

Updating your information is easy. Please call 202-547-8700 and our representative will take your information over the phone.

]]>
https://acicinsure.com/blogs/tips/the-top-20-most-popular-fleet-management-software2018-08-14T12:30:00-04:002018-08-14T12:30:57-04:00The Top 20 Most Popular Fleet Management SoftwareACICinsure.com team - Curated ContentBuying fleet management software takes work, but that work follows some familiar patterns. If you know how to shop smart for other products, the following helpful questions will make buying fleet management software easier than you thought.

Using a fleet management software helps fleet owners successfully track and monitor their vehicles. When purchasing software, consider how it will fit and grow with your company, as well as its customer service and reputation. Free software can also provide limited, yet still beneficial options.

]]>
https://acicinsure.com/blogs/tips/virginia-operator-achieves-his-american-dream2018-08-14T11:25:00-04:002018-08-14T11:25:58-04:00Virginia Operator Achieves His American DreamACICinsure.com team - Curated ContentRunning a successful fleet comes with many challenges. Owners must consider the size, nature, and demand of their markets through thoughtful research. Once in operation, we also recommend expanding slowly and adapting to demand carefully in order to ensure the most successful and profitable business.

Running a successful fleet comes with many challenges. Owners must consider the size, nature, and demand of their markets through thoughtful research. Once in operation, we also recommend expanding slowly and adapting to demand carefully in order to ensure the most successful and profitable business.

Virginia Operator Achieves His American Dream

Who

Success Story

Claude came to the U.S. in 2003 after working for the Romanian military. He quit because he knew if he came here, he’d have more opportunity. He wanted to have his own business eventually, but got his start working at an upscale Italian restaurant calledMaurizio’sin Williamsburg. In 2008, he applied for a certificate with the DMV, which was difficult at that time in Virginia because you had to prove a need for the service. After asking for letters of recommendation from businesses and hotels, he got the permit a few months later.

Wise Words

Find the needs in your particular market before buying equipment. Make sure you have the business before you buy the metal. Think long and hard because it will be a constant expense. “Don’t get excited in a busy month. Analyze before you make a move,” he says. Also, don’t just rely on affiliate work; it can go away at any time. Don’t count affiliate runs when you’re figuring out what vehicle to add to your fleet next. “It’s OK to farm-out if you find companies with the same level of service, but make sure to do your research,” he says.

Researching The Market

If you operate in a small market, you want to make sure you do everything right. There’s no room for error when your business thrives on word of mouth. That’s why Claude stays involved in all aspects of operations, making sure cars are clean, chauffeurs are tidy with good manners, and the company is ensuring a phenomenal experience from the first phone call to the drop off. “That’s how you thrive. Everything has to be flawless. You can do 1,000 good jobs and no one will say anything; do one bad, and everyone in town will talk about it.”

Fast Facts

Building The Business

When he first started, no one in the area had a Mercedes-Benz S430, so that was his first vehicle. He did a lot of military and government escorting and security as a Sergeant Major in a force of the ministry of the interior in Romania, where he learned a lot about customer service working with diplomats and other high ranking officials. When the economy collapsed in 2008, he promoted his business in the morning, kept his job at the restaurant in the afternoon, and hired retired executives who wanted to drive at night. He had made a lot of contacts at the restaurant because it stood next to a high-end gated community. He advertised in that community’s newsletters with his picture on it, and people started to recognize him.

Fleet Expansion

Since the Mercedes was too expensive for some clients, he decided to get a more affordable vehicle as an extra option. He went with a six-passenger Dodge Caravan, which enabled him to have one vehicle for executives and one for families. After seven months, he was able to quit his job at the restaurant and run his company full time. Soon enough he had to hire another chauffeur and picked up an account with a CEO of a large company a few months out.

Learning From Mistakes

He purchased a bus in 2013 and got a larger one soon after. “I purchased too many too fast,” he says. “It was only really busy for about seven months, but I was hoping the business was there anyway. I didn’t calculate and factor everything in.” In 2017, his fleet reached 13 vehicles. He realized he should downsize to nine to make a good profit margin and avoid unneeded stress.

Family Guy

Claude doesn’t want to be big — just profitable enough for him to be able to spend more time with his family. “We’re comfortable where we’re at. We welcome steady corporate work and don’t want to chase retail.”

Downtime

In his free time, Claude enjoys DJing for friends’ parties, playing soccer, fishing, and spending time with his family.

]]>
https://acicinsure.com/blogs/tips/how-to-be-a-great-insured-and-why-it-matters-to-you2018-08-14T11:22:00-04:002018-08-14T11:22:52-04:00How To Be A Great Insured ... And Why It Matters To You!ACICinsure.com team - Original ContentAs a professional driver your commercial auto insurance costs are a sizeable expense in your business alongside gas, vehicle maintenance, licenses, and credit card fees. Whether you purchase your commercial insurance at Amalgamated or at another carrier, there are a handful of basic risk attributes that insurers use to assess what type of prospective risk you pose as a driver and therefore what is an adequate rate to quote you.

What makes a commercial auto driver an attractive “Insured” to an insurance company?

While it might not be something you have spent time thinking about, the answer to that question could have a meaningful impact on your wallet and allow you to keep more money in your pocket.

As a professional driver, your commercial auto insurance costs are a significant expense alongside gas, vehicle maintenance, local licensing requirements, and credit card fees. Keep reading this post to learn more about what it takes to be eligible for the most affordable commercial automobile insurance coverage possible.

Whether you purchase your commercial auto insurance at Amalgamated Casualty Insurance Company or someplace else, there are four basic considerations that commercial auto insurance companies use to assess what type of risk you pose and what premium will be necessary to insure you: accident frequency, accident severity, moving violations, and the primary area you operate in.

FREQUENCY

How often you become involved in incidents or accidents has a great impact on how risky you appear to an insurance company. Drivers with clean loss records for three to five years are more desirable risks and are often eligible for preferred rates which lower their overall premiums.

While insurance exists to protect you and the public from unexpected losses and events, research has shown that a small percentage of crash-prone drivers are responsible for a large percentage of overall accidents. In a recent Louisiana study, 34% of crashes are repeatedly committed by the at-fault crash-prone drivers who represent only 5% of the total licensed drivers in the state. (1). Frequent involvement in accidents and incidents (regardless of fault) not only require your insurance provider to pay out more in losses, but they will also incur more in expenses to fairly investigate and handle claims.

SEVERITY

Severity describes the type of losses you have experienced as a driver. A fender-bender with minimal damage will impact your insurance costs differently than a serious accident involving many parties.

Accidents involving pedestrians and bikers often are severe accidents because the injured party is not protected by a vehicle. Driving safely requires heightened caution around cross-walks, bike-trails, stadiums, conference centers, and airport & hotel pick-up stands as well as any other area that has heavy pedestrian or bike traffic.

When an accident does occur, the best thing you can do to to limit the potential severity of your claim is to promptly notify your insurance company of the accident. This gives your insurance company the ability to promptly investigate and handle the claim. Everyone involved in accident benefits from having a fair and quick resolution after an accident.

MOVING VIOLATIONS

Insurance providers consider any moving violation(s) on your driving record to assess the risk associated with extending you insurance coverage. Many drivers on the road have no moving violations or infractions at all on their license. Speeding tickets, traffic light violations, illegal U-turns, or failure to yield citations all signal a pattern of aggressive driving. Therefore, to be eligible for the best possible rate you need to have a clean driver’s license.

AREA OF OPERATION

While this risk factor has less to do with your specific driving behavior, it is used to determine an appropriate rate to insure you. Within a specific state, the legal environment and the traffic on the roads can vary widely. Different counties within the same state may have different required limits for liability coverage. These are a couple of reasons that explain why premiums can vary substantially even within the same state.

CONCLUSION

As a driver, you want the most affordable insurance premiums possible that adequately protect your business. Preferred rates are for preferred, professional drivers that drive safely, report accidents promptly and pay their premiums timely.

Drive smart and safe travels!

Estimating likelihood of future crashes for crash-prone drivers, available online at sciencedirect.com

Your insurance premium covers two expenses, the cost of crashes and the cost of “everything else”. Everything else includes taxes, fees, rent, and employing people to service your policy and fairly compensate those with valid claims. The cost of “everything else” rises over time along with the prices of most goods and services in the economy.

Your insurance premium covers two expenses, the cost of crashes and the cost of “everything else”. Everything else includes taxes, fees, rent, and employing people to service your policy and fairly compensate those with valid claims. The cost of “everything else” rises over time along with the prices of most goods and services in the economy.

The cost of crashes varies from year to year depending on many factors, but even if you do not get into a crash during a specific period, many other policyholders will not be as fortunate. The cost of crashes has been soaring nationwide at roughly 3 times the rate of general price increases due to the following key reasons:

More traffic. As the economy continues to strengthen there are more people on the road commuting to work which increases the vehicle miles driven causing more traffic and more crashes.

Distracted driving. Smartphones, car infotainment systems, and GPS systems are in the majority of vehicles driven today and they all create dangerous driver distractions.

Rising Claim Costs. According to Fast Track Monitoring System, for the period 1/1/2015 – 3/31/2017 the average insurance claim cost increased significantly. The figure below shows the detailed increase for each category of expense.

Source: Fast Track Monitoring System

ACIC has worked very hard over the past 25 years to keep its premium stable and consistent for all insureds. Our pricing model rewards the best drivers.

What can you do to keep your premium as low as possible?

Drive safely to avoid adding incidents to your loss record. We have collected various driving tips for your convenience and benefit on our blog for you to consider. Thank you for your continued business!

]]>
https://acicinsure.com/blogs/tips/automatic-emergency-braking-systems-are-about-to-be-everywhere2018-07-26T13:35:00-04:002018-08-08T13:42:44-04:00Automatic Emergency Braking Systems Are About to Be EverywhereACICinsure.com team - Curated Content
As the most common accidents are the result of rear-endings, we believe our customers should consider purchasing cars with automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems. Cars with AEB detect obstacles in the road and automatically slow their speed to avoid impact. While collisions are not always avoidable, AEB can mitigate the consequences of distracted driving.

As the most common accidents are the result of rear-endings, we believe our customers should consider purchasing cars with automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems. Cars with AEB detect obstacles in the road and automatically slow their speed to avoid impact. While collisions are not always avoidable, AEB can mitigate the consequences of distracted driving. AEB can prevent these accidents and reduce claims, which is crucial to continuing your business operations and keeping premiums low. Many car companies already offer AEB in their standard models, or for a small upgrade.

Cars that automatically stop in emergencies will soon become mainstream

After a recent NHTSA challenge, 20 auto manufacturers have pledged to include Automatic Emergency Braking systems on vehicles within the next decade.

Until a few years ago, automatic emergency braking (AEB; sometimes called autonomous emergency braking) was an exotic and rare auto feature, limited to high-end luxury models. But then came Subaru’s unveiling of its EyeSight AEB system on some affordable 2013 models.

Now, 20 automakers -— challenged by the federal government’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the trade group Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) -— have promised to make AEB a standard feature on virtually all new cars by September 2022.

NHTSA predicts that most automakers’ acceptance of the challenge will make AEB standard on new cars three years faster than could be achieved through the formal regulatory process. And the feature could be arriving a lot sooner than 2022.

Why take a Smart Driver course?

Here’s what you need to know about AEB.

Q:How does it work?

A:Cameras, radars, lasers or a combination of those on your vehicle scan the road ahead for obstacles. If the sensors detect that you are moving too fast to avoid hitting something in front of you — a stopped car, one that slows suddenly, a pedestrian, a barrier — AEB sounds or flashes adriver alert, then begins braking, often harder and faster than you can.

There’s no guarantee you’ll avoid the crash, even with AEB. The systems are able to cut your speed only a certain amount. AEB will slow you to minimize the impact but might not be able to halt your vehicle in time to prevent it.

Typical speed reduction information from automakers is 19 mph to 30 mph from whatever speed you’re driving. Think of it as a system that automatically will stop you before you hit a stationary obstacle while you’re driving 19 mph to 30 mph, depending on the system, and you’re relying entirely on AEB to stop your car.

Q:Will we really have to wait until 2022 for this feature?

A:No. It’s on some models now, and competition is likely to spur the automatic-stopping race.

For instance, Toyota recently announced that it would begin to include the technology on almost every new Toyota and Lexus vehicle by the end of 2017. AEB quickly will be “standard on all models, all trim levels,” says Toyota safety spokesman John Hanson.

Since Toyota is among the U.S. auto sales leaders — behind only GM and Ford — that alone will pump a significant number of AEB vehicles onto the road quickly.

In addition, Ford’s 2017 Fusion midsize sedan, while it doesn’t use the AEB moniker, has what it calls “adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go.” Ford says the feature can “automatically apply up to full braking force [to] … help reduce the severity of, or even eliminate” some collisions.

Like some others, Ford’s system also will bring the stopped car back up to traffic speed with the touch of a control — something you might use after the system eases you to a halt behind a car stopped for a traffic light, for instance.

Q:Until it becomes standard, what will AEB cost as an option?

A:Depends on the automaker. Subaru’s EyeSight starts at $1,195. Toyota’s system costs as little as $500. Mostly, automakers package their versions of AEB technology with other features, so you have to buy a pricier options package or a higher-level version of any particular model to get AEB.

Q:Are there affordable cars with AEB now?

A:Yes. Subaru has been the pioneer. Its current Impreza is the least expensive model to offer EyeSight, running about $25,000 when equipped with AEB, including destination charges. Subaru’s Forester, Crosstrek and Outback range from about $26,000 to $30,000, including destination, with AEB.

Mazda also offers AEB options on less expensive models like the Mazda3 (about $30,000) and the CX-5 SUV (about $31,000).

Q:Is AEB technology foolproof?

A:No. Drivers still are responsible for stopping in time.Depending on your speed and how far ahead the slowing vehicle or stationary obstacle is, there simply might be too little distance for AEB to stop in time.

And there can be glitches. Subaru, for instance, recalled 72,000 of its 2015 and 2016 models with EyeSight last year because the AEB wouldn’t work at all if a taillight switch failed.

“Cars that have these systems have 14 percent fewer crashes with other vehicles than cars that don’t have the system,” IIHS Executive Vice President and Chief Research Officer David Zuby told CNN during a recent interview. In addition, an IIHS report shows that AEB technology can reduce insurance injury claims by as much as 35 percent.

Q:How will AEB help ordinary drivers and their passengers?

A:AEB could at least partially make up for distracted drivers who fail to notice how fast they’re approaching a potential rear-end collision, as well as help compensate for slower reaction times that can come with aging. IIHS President Adrian Lund last September said, “Most crashes involve driver error. This technology can compensate for the mistakes every driver makes because the systems are always on alert, monitoring the road ahead and never getting tired or distracted.”

A:There’s a profit motive, of course. It’s not lost on car companies that there are marketing benefits of getting IIHS’ highest crash-test score, “Top Safety Pick +,” which requires AEB or another accident “mitigation” feature. Companies achieving the top score emphasize it in ads.

Distracted driving comes in many forms: texting, navigation, exhaustion, and many more. Distracted driving can have severe consequences – slowing your reaction time and increasing your chance of being involved in a collision. Many of our claims are the result of distracted driving.

Distracted driving comes in many forms: texting, navigation, exhaustion, and many more. Distracted driving can have severe consequences – slowing your reaction time and increasing your chance of being involved in a collision. Many of our claims are the result of distracted driving. When you eliminate this behavior, you in turn prevent accumulating claims, premium increases, and cancellation. We have collected some tips here for you to avoid distracted driving and its repercussions.

You know that heart pounding moment when you swerve to stay on the road or avoid a collision? Safety experts say that multi-tasking while driving causes slower reaction times, and increases your chances of getting into a collision. A 2008 study done atCarnegie Mellon Universityused brain imaging to show how multi-tasking in the car impairs essential cognitive processes, so less of the brain is available to focus on the primary task of driving.

Hands-free talking can help

Drivers talking or texting on a cell phone is currently an important issue for many local lawmakers because it involves all three kinds of distraction (visual, manual, and cognitive). This makes cell phone conversations and use among the most distracting behaviors people engage in behind the wheel. Many states have enacted laws requiring headsets or hands-free technology — see our articleUnderstanding Cell Phone Lawsto find out more.

Using a hands-free device gives you a boost in safety, but it doesn't completely eliminate all distractions associated with talking on a cell phone while driving. National Safety Council (NSC) studies reveal that hands-free drivers are still less likely to notice exits, red lights, stop signs, and other cues relevant to driving. So, you'll be able to keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel, but there's still a level of cognitive distraction involved.

Tips to help reduce distraction

Although it may not be possible to avoid every distraction completely, these strategies can help you minimize sources of distraction:

Before you roll

Set essential controls:Before you back out of your parking spot, queue up the playlist you want to hear, set climate controls to a comfortable level, and program any destinations into your GPS.

Review your route:When you're headed for an unfamiliar destination, review your directions and study your route ahead of time. Use Google Map's Street View to get a 3D look at your destination, so you'll have a mental picture to help you find your address.

Secure your pets:Keep your furry friends out of harm's way in a well ventilated crate or carrier, secured preferably in the backseat or hatchback. This way, you won't be tempted to feed or pet them while driving, and they'll stay protected in case of a collision.

Manage your time:Rushing tends to promote distraction, road rage, and taking unnecessary risks. Whenever possible, leave a few minutes early so you can arrive at your destination stress-free.

Prep at home:Get ready for work before getting in your car. Putting on deodorant, makeup, and shaving are much easier and safer when done in your own bathroom.

On the road

Drive thru, pull over:When you grab food on the go, take ten minutes to park and eat. You can use the time to check your messages, return some calls, or read the paper.

GPS adjustments:If you get lost, turned around, or need to make major changes to your route, find a safe place to pull off the road.

The buddy system:An adult passenger riding next to you can share your awareness of the driving situation, and actually reduce the risk of collision, according to theNSC. Make it a habit to stick with light conversation topics — a heated discussion can actually pull your attention away from the road.

Save it for later:Suspend phone conversations in heavy traffic and bad weather, even if you're using handsfree talking. You need your full attention on the road to anticipate and react to hazardous road conditions.

Spacing out:If you feel like your mind is wandering to some problem at work or at home, pull off the road and write it down or make a phone call. On long drives, take breaks to rest your eyes.

In the classroom

Take a refresher:Defensive driving classes, offered online or in-person, can teach you helpful safe-driving strategies and improve your awareness on the road. Some insurance companies even offer discounts to policyholders who complete courses.

Inevitably, you'll encounter other factors vying for your attention as you drive. The trick is to prioritize — ask yourself if it's worth taking your focus away from driving to attend to another task. Try envisioning a good friend or loved one — or even your high school Driver's Ed instructor — sitting next to you on the passenger side. Someone who'll remind you to trust your gut, use technology wisely, and enjoy the drive.